CELLULAR FUNCTIONS

Angiotensin receptor activating autoantibodies (AT1-AAs) may underlie many features of preeclampsia. AT1-AAs from preeclamptic patients activate angiotensin receptors (AT1R) on the surface of many cell types and may be responsible for many features of this serious pregnancy disorder. We have shown that antibody-induced receptor activation results in the mobilization of intracellular calcium and the activation of many genes. We propose that AT1-AAs activate AT1 receptors by promoting receptor homodimerization (Dr. Rodney Kellems). ROS, reactive oxygen species. SMC, smooth muscle cells; EC, endothelial cells.